SNELLVILLE - Shiloh Elementary School's PTA plans to file an insurance claim to recoup some money stolen from the group, but a gift from an Atlanta woman has boosted spirits in the school's community.

The school received a $100 check for the Parent Teacher Association, along with a note from the mother of an Atlanta Public Schools student who expressed her sympathy about the news that the group's former treasurer had been arrested on charges of theft by taking, officials said.

Holly Melton, the co-president of the Gwinnett County Council of PTAs, said she was excited to hear about the check.

"I hope this person reaps a lot of benefits for their good will," she said.

The PTA will not be able to process a claim with the liability insurance until the police report is complete, Melton said. Neither police nor PTA officials have confirmed how much money was lost.

The group's former treasurer, Cheryl Dixon, turned herself in last month to authorities on two charges of theft by taking. Dixon resigned from the PTA at the beginning of this school year, Melton said.

Dixon's employer, Hands On Atlanta, is aware of the arrest and plans to "monitor the situation very closely," said Tracy Hoover, the nonprofit's chief executive officer.

Hoover said Dixon is a "well-respected member of the community" who has worked with nonprofit organizations for more than 20 years.

"We're hopeful that this matter will resolve favorably," Hoover said.

The PTA's former co-president, who now works for Shiloh Elementary, is also under investigation. The school district's human resources division is looking into the incident, but district spokeswoman Sloan Roach said that investigation is hinging on the Police Department's findings.

Roach said Shiloh Elementary has always had a strong PTA, and she said the check was a sign that people recognize the good work the organization has done.

"I think it goes to show that people realize the importance of the PTA in supporting schools," Roach said.